Bassist Jim Markway gathers many of his New Orleans musical associates together in various combinations on his aptly titled release, Comrades. As regulars on the jazz scene, it is more than likely these musicians have shared a bandstand or at least run across each other.

The album, which boasts 10 of the dozen selections coming from Markway’s pen, kicks off with a quintet-swinging “Linear Time.” The leader’s acoustic bass sets the tempo and attitude of this melody-rich tune with pianist Larry Sieberth and drummer Cori Walters, who is heard on all but one cut, filling out the rhythm section. The horns of alto saxophonist Conner Stewart, who appears on most cuts, and trumpeter Ashlin Parker get to step out front. Simply, a very solid selection.

“Me Like Blues,” is a fun, kinda funky cut with Cranston Clements strutting his stuff in his always-inventive style. Markway moves over to the electric bass and Wayne Maureau takes the drum seat on this change of pace, collaboratively-written tune.

The waltz-like tempo of “At Play” provides the duel horns of trumpeter Parker and altoist Stewart, dancing as one before each takes a stylistically- stretched out solo. Markway’s remains as the reliable heartbeat.

Joe Ashlar and Jeffery “Jellybean” Alexander, on piano and drums respectively, come in on “Majic Eyes Only” while others, including pianist Michael Pellera and drummer Michael Barras, are also heard on the release. The album concludes with Markway quietly and melodically alone with his electric bass.

Comrades represents some of New Orleans’ finest jazz artists doing what they do best: naturally and creatively coming together to offer pleasure and excitement to the music they love. Meanwhile, Markway‘s thoughtful compositions provide a comfortable and challenging platform for them to invigorate their natural creativity.

Camrades CD release party will be at Snug Harbor on Thursday, September 5, 2024.